28 state lawmakers call for end to Iraq war

David Ammons, The Associated Press

Published 10:00 pm, Tuesday, May 1, 2007

OLYMPIA -- Washington state lawmakers took no formal action during their recent session to criticize the Iraq war, but 28 Democratic members sent a letter to the state's congressional delegation on Tuesday advocating an end to U.S. involvement "as soon as prudently possible."

The letter, initiated by Sen. Jeanne Kohl-Welles, D-Seattle, is a non-binding expression of the group's views to a heavily Democratic delegation that is largely critical of the Bush administration's handling of the war.

The letter, calling for strong congressional oversight over the White House handling of the war, was sent just hours before President Bush vetoed a war-funding bill that included a timetable for withdrawing troops from Iraq.

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The state lawmakers asked their congressional colleagues to resist any escalation of the war.

The group didn't mention deadlines, the source of the current standoff between Bush and Congress, but used the phrase "bring our troops home as soon as prudently possible."

The legislators said the cost to Washington state has been enormous, including 67 casualties from the state and a pro rated share of the cost estimated at $8.6 billion. That money could have been used for health care or other pressing needs, they said.

The lawmakers called for strong federal programs for returning veterans and support for the Washington National Guard, which is supplying troops and equipment.

Kohl-Welles said 29 state legislatures have introduced memorials or resolutions to Congress expressing concern over the war.

She was chosen state legislator of the year last month by the anti-war Progressive States Network.